A Smethwick mum has become the first patient to be operated on at the UK’s newest hospital.
Harbans Kaur underwent hip surgery at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital on Sunday (6 Oct) on the same day the healthcare facility opened.
She said: “I’ve seen them building the hospital over the years so to be the first person to have an operation is a proud moment.”
Mrs Kaur, aged 78, suffered a fracture at home on Friday and was taken to Sandwell Hospital.
She was then transferred to the Midland Met on Sunday morning in a meticulously planned process by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust which runs both hospitals.
Around 175 patients were moved from Sandwell Hospital through the morning and into the early afternoon.
“It was originally planned to have the operation at Sandwell but then they brought me here,” Mrs Kaur added.
“I didn’t know that I would end up having the operation at the new hospital, but it’s a real privilege to be the first person to have surgery. The ward is very nice and spacious.”
Daughter Charanjit Kaur, visited her mum on Monday morning. “It’s reassuring to know that my mum had her operation in the new hospital which has all these new facilities.
“It was unexpected and of course it’s never nice to be in hospital. But at least she is being cared for in an improved environment. The new hospital is very nice.”
Mr Saad Elashry, who carried out the operation, said: “The operation went very well and was completed safely.
“We try and prioritise patients who’ve come in with this type of fracture which is treated by replacing the hip.
“Being able to do this in the Midland Met means a better patient journey as the facilities are closer together.”
He added: “It was a great feeling to know that myself and the team were the first to be operating in the new hospital.”